BRONX, NY– For weeks now I have been going all around the Bronx advocating and educating everyone about my “22 Hugs A Day” campaign. The purpose of the hug is to lower your defense and open yourself up for the possible. Those possibilities can be someone to talk too, seeking resources, or getting medical care. This method promotes a connection so that a Veteran will become open to the idea of seeking help and talking about their struggles. Many people have been extremely receptive to the idea, with words of encouragement, and, of course, hugs.

But the movement did not really pick up momentum until Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj agreed to come aboard the hug train. Now Michael Max Knobbe and Gary Axelbank have joined along with the rest of the BronxNet family. Joseph Kelleher, Chairman of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce, Councilman Andy King, Congressman Eliot Engel, and Community Board 7 Chairwoman Adaline Walker-Santiago recently joined the movement as well.

This means that representatives from the North, South, West and East Bronx have all agreed to be a part of this campaign. But that does not mean that you have to be a person in a political office to join. I welcome everyone to contribute to this campaign by hugging a Veteran, taking a picture, and using the hash tag #22Hugsaday.

Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming event for #22Hugsaday. If you would like to participate in this event, please contact me at ceo@devildogusa.org.

Devil Dog USA Inc. is a non-profit Veteran ran organization for Veterans and the community. Our office is a hub for resources for all and our goal is to bridge the gap between them both. We are completely staffed by volunteers and ask for donations of equipment and services via tax-deductible monetary donations. You can receive more information from our website at: http://www.devildogusainc.org.

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